How to Dispose of Latex Paint : Tips and Tricks Before Using

The term ‘latex paint’ appears on the cans of many paints. But, what exactly is latex paint? What are the reasons you may want to choose it over other types? Where and how do you properly use it? How to dispose of Latex Paint? Here, we will tell you the answers to all these questions. The more you know about latex paint before you start painting, the more you can be confident you are making the right choice. Without further ado, let’s start.

What is latex paint?

Latex is a term applied to water-based latex, acrylic or vinyl styrene paints.  The reason that people call them that is because they contain chains of artificial polymers which act like natural latex would. Originally, latex was the name for the Brazilian Rubber Tree’s sap. This substance is referred to as rubber latex. Today, the same chemical compound is engineered in labs. Rubber latex is never found in latex paint, despite the name. Blinders in these kinds of paints cause them to appear somewhat milky before applications to surfaces. However, they dry clear.

Note: Latex paint is also referred to as acrylic paint. Sometimes, they are interchangeable.

What are the reasons you may want to choose it over other types?

In short, latex paint is safer and greener. The long answer is the following.

Often, it is a better choice for you. Latex paint is safer to use since it contains less harmful chemicals than oil paint. As it dries, latex paint also releases fewer harmful fumes. And after latex paint is dried, it is relatively safe.

Latex paint is also a better choice for the environment. Why? Because you can actually recycle unused latex paint. While most recycling centers charge a fee for this, it is well worth doing. You can also allow the paint to dry. Then, throw it away. The paint may be recycled later. And if you want to store your latex paint for later use, that is okay as well.

Where and how to use latex paint?

Latex paint is a great choice for interior and exterior paint jobs. The paint is washable with soap and water after drying. While it is safer to use than oil paint, you need to ensure the area is well ventilated as well as wearing breathing equipment.

You can use latex paint on walls, ceilings, siding, and trim. Before you start painting, wash the area first. Then, apply a latex based primer, let it dry. Next, apply the first coat of paint. If needed, you can apply a second coat in as little as 4 hours.

The next question comes to your mind how to dispose of latex paint. Lets find its answer.

How to dispose of latex paint?

And now, for the question how to dispose of latex paint. There are ways to dispose of latex paint. According to recent research, it was found that latex paint and stains, as long as the latex paint is dry or solidified first, can safely be put in the garbage for disposal at landfill. If you want to dispose of latex paint, make sure you do it in legal ways.

However, if latex paint is dumped illegally, liquid latex paint can be a hazard as it may plug or damage septic fields. Thus, overloading sewage treatment plants which in turn creates environmental hazards on the ground.

To dispose of latex paint and stains, you should dry out latex paint and stains, put it in the garbage with the lid off and use one of these methods:

Air

• First, remove the lid. Allow the paint to dry out in the can
• Protect the paint from freezing and rain as well as children and animals
• This method is most effective in the warmer months and it only works when an inch or less of paint is left in the can

Cat litter

• Mix the paint with an equal amount of clay-based cat litter. You can also use shredded paper, dirt, and sawdust as alternatives to cat litter
• Stir in completely. Let the paint dry. It takes approximately 10 minutes for the cat litter to harden
• If the paint is runny or soft after 10 minutes, add more cat little. Repeat this step until the material is very thick
• In case there is not enough space in the paint can to stir in sufficient cat litter to dry it all out, just pour off paint into any plastic or cardboard container that is big enough to hold the material. For instance, shoe box, plastic tub, yogurt container or other convenient containers

Paint hardener

• Mix the paint with paint hardener and follow the directions
• At the end of the process, paint will have an oatmeal-like, tacky consistency that will not spill out

Other ways of using up latex paints or stains

• Use the latex paint when you paint your garage, dog house or use it as a primer coat for another painting project
• Donate excess paint to school, non-profit agency or theater group

 

Note: make sure it is latex paint. Look on the label for the word “later.” Or, look for directions to clean up or thin with water. If it is oil-based paints, bring it to a hazardous waste facility for proper disposal. After the latex paint has solidified, place the can with the lid off in the garbage container. The garbage hauler will need to see whether the paint has been solidified.

How to prevent latex paint and stains waste

To prevent latex paint waste, ask the seller for assistance to buy the right quantity. Everyone has good intentions to use half-filled paint cans for a touch-up that never come. Many people also have saved paint that becomes unusable over time. If you save paint for later by using a paint sprayer, just make sure that you follow steps to make the paint last longer. Here is how

• Cover the opening with plastic wrap. Make sure the lid fits securely so it won’t leak
• Turn the can upside down to create a tight seal, keeping the paint fresh to use again

Hope you like this article about latex paint, its use and How to Dispose of Latex Paint. Feel free to share this article with your friends if you like it or it comes to a little help to you. Thanks.

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